Tye Ruotolo Confident in "Best in the World" Leg Lock Defense vs. "Super Dangerous" Pawel Jaworski at ONE Fight Night 41

Tye Ruotolo is set to defend his ONE welterweight submission grappling championship against Pawel Jaworski at ONE Fight Night 41 on March 13th. Returning to submission grappling after two successful MMA fights where he defeated previously unbeaten professionals, Ruotolo shared his thoughts on this championship defense.

Ruotolo reflected on his return to pure jiu-jitsu: "It's interesting. My recent focus was heavily on MMA training. Shifting back to jiu-jitsu, I found myself revisiting aspects I had perhaps overlooked. It's been enjoyable to shake off the rust. I never felt I'd 'lose' my jiu-jitsu, having practiced it my entire life, but the process of re-engaging with the specific, intricate problems unique to jiu-jitsu, separate from MMA, has been refreshing."

He added, "I've really enjoyed using my mind in that way again. I've somewhat reconnected with my love for jiu-jitsu through this training. I'm incredibly enthusiastic about defending my title against Pawel, who is a highly skilled and notoriously dangerous leg locker."

When asked about Jaworski's primary threat in the upcoming championship match, Ruotolo commented,

"Pawel, in my opinion, has a very specific path to victory in our fight – primarily through leg locks. It appears to be his specialty, where he concentrates all his efforts. From what I gather, he's among the world's elite and most dangerous leg lockers, so I certainly won't underestimate him."

He continued with confidence, "However, I also believe that his main offensive strategy plays directly into my strongest defensive area. I genuinely feel, humbly speaking, that my leg lock defense is arguably the best in the world. I don't believe I can be leg locked, and we'll soon put that to the test. Pawel is extremely dangerous, and I'm eager to challenge this theory, especially since it's been a long time since anyone has truly threatened my legs."

Tye Ruotolo: "I'm Dangerous" heading into ONE Fight Night 41

Ruotolo also asserted his own diverse threat level for the upcoming title defense. Acknowledging Jaworski's specialized threat, Ruotolo also highlighted the comprehensive nature of his own grappling skills, stating:

"I strive for realism. While confidence is vital, false confidence is not beneficial. I understand my capabilities; I can finish a match from any position – with my own leg locks, arm bars, chokes, anywhere. I am dangerous, and I recognize that he is dangerous too. So, I simply need to approach this match realistically and come in ready."